Woolly Tree Fern
Dicksonia lanata
Dicksonia lanata , commonly known as the Woolly Tree Fern or Golden Woolly Tree Fern, is a distinctive and ornamental species of tree fern endemic to New Zealand. It is recognized by its relatively short, stocky trunk, and perhaps most notably, by the dense, reddish-brown, woolly hairs that cover its frond stalks and crown. This unique feature gives it a soft, furry appearance and distinguishes it from other native tree ferns. It thrives in damp, shaded forest environments and is a cherished component of New Zealand's diverse fern flora.
Plant Description
Dicksonia lanata typically grows a short, stout trunk, usually up to 1-2 meters tall, though sometimes taller. The trunk is often decumbent (lying along the ground) or semi-erect, and is densely covered in a thick mat of reddish-brown, woolly hairs, which are a key identifying characteristic. From the crown emerge numerous fronds, typically 1 to 2.5 meters long, that are soft-textured, tripinnate (three times divided), and a rich green colour. The frond stalks (stipes) are also covered in the characteristic golden-brown woolly hairs, which gradually diminish towards the frond segments. The rhizome is creeping and can form small colonies.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Dicksonia lanata |
|---|---|
| Family | Dicksoniaceae |
| Form | Terrestrial tree fern |
| Light | Partial to full shade |
| Soil | Moist, well-drained, humus-rich |
| Water | High, consistent moisture |
| Water Needs | High |
| Frost Tolerance | Hardy |
| Salt Tolerance | Low |
| Height | Trunk up to 1-2 m (sometimes taller) |
| Spread | Fronds spread 1.5-3 m |
| Foliage | Evergreen; soft, tripinnate, rich green fronds |
| Growth Rate | Slow to moderate |
| Lifespan | Long-lived perennial |
| Unique Features | Dense reddish-brown woolly hairs on stipes and crown. |
Climate Best Suited to
Dicksonia lanata requires cool, extremely wet conditions typical of western mountain forests. This tree fern thrives in areas with annual rainfall exceeding 2500mm, high humidity year-round, and temperatures between 5-20°C. It needs protection from wind and frost, performing best in sheltered gullies with consistent moisture.
Regional Suitability
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Marginal |
| Auckland | Marginal |
| Hamilton | Unsuitable |
| Tauranga | Marginal |
| Rotorua | Suitable |
| Gisborne | Unsuitable |
| New Plymouth | Suitable |
| Napier | Unsuitable |
| Whanganui | Marginal |
| Palmerston North | Marginal |
| Wellington | Suitable |
| Nelson | Suitable |
| Christchurch | Marginal |
| Dunedin | Ideal |
| Invercargill | Ideal |
Habitat
Natural Distribution
Dicksonia lanata is found in native lowland to montane forests throughout New Zealand, especially in areas with high rainfall and humidity. It typically grows on damp forest floors, in shady gullies, along stream banks, and on the margins of bogs. It prefers sites with well-drained, humus-rich soil and good shelter from exposure, often growing under the canopy of larger trees.
Conservation Status
Current Threats and Protection
Dicksonia lanata is currently classified as "Not Threatened" under the New Zealand Threat Classification System. It is relatively widespread in suitable habitats, though its specific requirements for high humidity and an undisturbed forest understory mean that local populations can be vulnerable to habitat degradation, deforestation, and changes in microclimate. Protection of its native forest habitats is crucial for its long-term well-being.
How to Grow
Cultivation Requirements
Dicksonia lanata requires consistently moist, humus-rich, and well-drained soil. It thrives in partial to full shade, needing protection from direct sunlight which can scorch its delicate fronds. High atmospheric humidity is crucial for its health, making it an ideal choice for sheltered, damp garden locations, fernerys, or woodland settings. Water regularly, ensuring the soil never dries out, especially during dry spells. Protect from strong winds which can damage fronds and from severe frosts, particularly when young.
Planting Guide
Best Planting Practices
Plant Dicksonia lanata in spring or early autumn, choosing a sheltered, shaded location that mimics its natural forest understory habitat. Ensure the soil is consistently moist, humus-rich, and well-drained. Provide ample space for frond development and protect from strong winds and direct sunlight.
Ecological Role
Environmental Benefits
Dicksonia lanata plays an important ecological role in New Zealand's forest ecosystems. Its fronds and trunks provide habitat and shelter for a variety of epiphytes (plants that grow on other plants) and small invertebrates, contributing to the biodiversity of the forest understory. As a component of the forest floor, it helps to retain moisture, stabilize soil, and contributes to nutrient cycling.
Uses
Traditional and Modern Applications
Dicksonia lanata is highly valued as an ornamental plant, particularly for shaded gardens, fernerys, and woodland settings. Its unique woolly trunk and beautiful soft green fronds make it a striking focal point. It is a popular choice for creating a lush, subtropical, or native forest aesthetic in temperate gardens.
Landscaping Uses
Garden Design Applications
This tree fern is ideal for shaded borders, woodland gardens, or as an accent plant in a dedicated fernery. Its distinctive appearance makes it a superb choice for creating textural contrast and adding a sense of primeval beauty. It can be used as an underplanting beneath large native trees or along damp stream banks to create a naturalistic, serene landscape.
Seasonal Care
Year-Round Maintenance
Dicksonia lanata requires consistent moisture throughout the year. Ensure it is well-watered during dry periods, especially in summer, and consider regular misting in very dry climates. Protect from strong winds which can damage fronds. In colder areas, fronds may die back in winter, but the plant will usually reshoot from the crown in spring. Apply a balanced liquid feed during the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning Techniques
Pruning Dicksonia lanata is minimal. Remove any old, damaged, or yellowing fronds at their base as needed to maintain tidiness and encourage new growth. Ensure that the cut is clean and close to the trunk without damaging the crown.
How to Grow Woolly Tree Fern
From Spores
Propagation of Dicksonia lanata from spores is a specialized but effective method for ferns. Collect spores when they are ripe, identifiable as fine, brownish dust on the underside of mature fronds. Carefully tap fronds over a piece of white paper to collect the spores. Sow spores onto a sterile, finely milled peat or fern-spore mix (often sterilized in a microwave) in a sealed container to maintain high humidity. Keep in indirect light at consistent temperatures (around 18-24°C or 65-75°F). Germination involves a prothallium stage before developing into true fern fronds, a process that can take several months. Once small plantlets are visible, gradually acclimate them to lower humidity and then prick them out into individual pots.
From Division (Offsets/Rhizomes)
Dicksonia lanata can also be propagated by carefully removing offsets or dividing its creeping rhizome. For offsets, locate small plantlets forming on the trunk or at the base of the main plant. Gently detach these with a clean, sharp knife, ensuring each offset has some root development. For rhizome division, carefully expose a section of the rhizome and cut a piece approximately 10-15 cm long with at least one frond or dormant bud. Plant these divisions into a moist, humus-rich, well-drained potting mix, ensuring the rhizome is just below the surface. Maintain high humidity and consistent moisture until new growth indicates establishment.
General Cultivation
The Woolly Tree Fern is an ornamental fern that thrives in damp, shaded forest environments, requiring specific cultivation to mimic its natural habitat. Plant in consistently moist, humus-rich, and well-drained soil; enrich the planting site with plenty of well-rotted compost or leaf mould. It requires partial to full shade, needing protection from direct sunlight which can scorch its delicate fronds. High atmospheric humidity is crucial for its health; consider planting near water features, in fernerys, or in sheltered woodland settings. Water regularly, ensuring the soil never dries out, especially during dry spells; the trunk also benefits from regular watering. Protect from strong winds which can damage fronds and from severe frosts, particularly when young. Apply a generous layer of organic mulch around the base to keep the roots cool and moist. Minimal pruning is needed; remove old, damaged, or yellowing fronds at their base to maintain tidiness.
Pests and Diseases
Common Problems and Solutions
Dicksonia lanata is generally robust but can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained, waterlogged soils. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in very humid conditions. Scale insects or mealybugs may occasionally appear on fronds, but these are usually manageable with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Providing optimal growing conditions is the best defense against pests and diseases.
Cultural Significance
Traditional Uses and Values
As an endemic New Zealand tree fern, Dicksonia lanata is an important part of the country's unique botanical heritage. Ferns hold a special place in Māori culture, often symbolizing new life, growth, and strength. The woolly covering may have had traditional uses, and the fern itself contributes to the rich natural tapestry of Aotearoa. Its distinctive appearance makes it a recognizable and valued component of the native forest.
Bonus Tip
Expert Growing Advice
To maintain the health and appearance of Dicksonia lanata in drier climates, regularly mist its fronds, especially during warm, dry periods. This helps to simulate the high humidity of its natural forest habitat and keeps the fronds looking fresh and vibrant.
